How To Use CPT Code 33025

CPT 33025 describes the creation of a pericardial window or partial resection for drainage. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 33025?

CPT 33025 is used to describe the procedure of creating a pericardial window or performing a partial resection to facilitate drainage of pericardial fluids. This code is used when there is a large accumulation of pericardial fluid, causing excessive pressure on the pericardium and pleural space.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 33025 is the creation of a pericardial window or partial resection for drainage. It is important to note that this code should not be reported in conjunction with code 33020 if a pleural drain or chest tube is placed on the same side.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An incision is made through the sternum, such as through median sternotomy, to access the pericardium.
3. A section of the pericardium is removed to create an opening, allowing for the drainage of pericardial fluids.
4. The provider then closes the incision and dresses the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 33025 is performed when there is a significant accumulation of pericardial fluid that requires drainage. This procedure is necessary when the pressure on the pericardium and pleural space becomes too great. It is important to note that code 33025 should not be reported if a pleural drain or chest tube is placed on the same side as the pericardial window or resection.

5. When to use CPT code 33025

CPT code 33025 should be used when a pericardial window or partial resection is performed to facilitate the drainage of pericardial fluids. It is important to ensure that the procedure is not performed in conjunction with code 33020 if a pleural drain or chest tube is placed on the same side.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 33025, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for pericardial drainage
• Details of the procedure performed, including whether a pericardial window or partial resection was created
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 33025, it is important to ensure that the procedure is not performed in conjunction with code 33020 if a pleural drain or chest tube is placed on the same side. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the use of this code. Additionally, if the procedure involves thoracoscopy for the creation of a pericardial window or partial resection, code 32659 should be used instead.

8. Historical information

CPT code 33025 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A cardiothoracic surgeon performs a pericardial window to drain pericardial fluid in a patient with pericardial effusion.
2. A patient with a history of pericarditis undergoes a partial resection of the pericardium to relieve pressure caused by pericardial fluid accumulation.
3. A pericardial window is created by a thoracic surgeon to facilitate drainage in a patient with cardiac tamponade.
4. A patient with a pericardial cyst undergoes a partial resection of the pericardium to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
5. A pericardial window is performed in a patient with a traumatic injury to the chest, allowing for the drainage of blood and fluid from the pericardial space.
6. A patient with a history of pericardial effusion undergoes a partial resection of the pericardium to prevent further fluid accumulation.
7. A pericardial window is created to drain pericardial fluid in a patient with constrictive pericarditis.
8. A cardiothoracic surgeon performs a partial resection of the pericardium to relieve pressure on the heart caused by pericardial fluid accumulation.
9. A patient with a pericardial tumor undergoes a pericardial window to facilitate drainage and alleviate symptoms.
10. A pericardial window is performed in a patient with a pericardial abscess, allowing for the drainage of pus and fluid.